The Lineup: Friday, July 12

Starter

MLB Minnesota Twins vs. New York Yankees, 7:05p.m. (MLB.TV)

Oh captain, my captain. Jetes is back everybody! Yesterday Derek Jeter played his first game since fracturing his ankle in last year's playoffs, though he had to be replaced by a pinch runner in the 8th because of a sore right quad. If only the basepaths were made of water—as far as Yankee fans are concerned, Jeter would have no trouble walking on that.

Reserves

These four teams put together two of the most entertaining matches in the first round of group play. Even lowly Haiti managed to be competitive before giving up a late goal on the dreaded double nutmeg.

The French squad is drawing inspiration from their countrywoman Marion Bartoli's unlikely victory at Wimbledon. A win in this tournament might earn them the same honor of having a BBC commentator decide for the world whether or not they are attractive.

Cycling Tour De France: Stage 13, 8:00a.m. (NBC Sports Network)

The ephemeral appeal of this race has been well documented here at The Lineup. Yesterday offered another video worthy of your time:

"I don't know much about the guy I'm fighting," said Francisco of his opponent. The outcome of this fight will result in either the indictment of Francisco for his lack of preparation, or of Avalos for losing to a guy who barely studied.

Deep Bench

Apparently each of the four semifinalists (Canada, Poland, Germany, and Russia) actually has beaches that allow for training in this sport. Some of them look downright spectacular. Poland, of all places, even has beaches that are up to Rihanna's sophisticated standards, even if she doesn't stay long.